What To Wear for Family Photos

Style Guide for Family Photos 2024

            Selecting outfits for a family photo session can be a daunting task. Finding clothes that look good and that everyone in the family will actually wear can be a major source of stress. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. Taking it step-by-step, focusing on one core outfit first, can help make the process of dressing the whole family for photos much more manageable.

1. Start with one outfit that you love as the inspiration for the rest of the family's outfits. Perhaps it's a favorite skirt from Anthropologie or a shirt that looks great on your spouse. Use that as the foundation and build the rest of the family's outfits around that central piece, matching the colors and style. Taking it step-by-step, focusing on one core outfit first, can help make the process of dressing the whole family for photos much more manageable.

2. For outdoor family photos, choose neutral or nature-inspired colors that match the season. The key is to choose a cohesive color palette that coordinates well, rather than having everyone in wildly different shades. Neutral and earth-toned colors tend to photograph beautifully in most settings.

3. Avoid neon colors, all-black outfits, and excessive turquoise as they can clash or wash people out.

4. For indoor/studio photos, neutral and earth-tone outfits work best.

5. Add variety and texture through patterns, layers, and different fabric types as these elements photograph really well.

6. Dress for the weather.  It’s very hard to disguise when someone is uncomfortable from being too hot or cold. For sessions in the spring and late fall, having backup outfit options or extra layers is recommended, as the weather can be unpredictable.

7. Don't forget to test out the full outfits ahead of time, especially for kids, to ensure everything fits and works well together.

 Color Palette Tips:

Spring:

- Pastels and muted shades of pink, green, blue, purple, and yellow

- Examples: light pink, sage green, soft blue, lavender, creamy yellow

Summer:

- Green, blue, red, purple, yellow, white, cream, and neutral tones

- Examples: leafy green, sky blue, burgundy red, lavender, sunshine yellow, beige, tan

Fall:

- Gold, orange, green, blue, black, brown, white, and neutral tones

- Examples: mustard yellow, burnt orange, forest green, navy blue, creamy white

**Since fall color can be so bright, I recommend muted or deep tones (dark green, navy, etc).

Winter:

- Green, red, blue, white, brown, and neutral tones

- Examples: emerald green, crimson red, powder blue, ivory white, camel brown

Textures That Work Well:

-ruffles, mohair, chunky knits, and twirly skirts.

- Layering pieces like moto jackets, scarves, and vests can also add visual interest.

- It's important to try everything on ahead of time, especially for kids, to ensure the layers don't become too distracting or cover up the face.

Style Tips for Women:

- I love dresses for women, as they photograph very well and are flattering on most body types.

- You want to highlight your favorite features and cover up areas you're self-conscious about, such as wearing sleeves if you don't like your arms.

- Ensure your clothing is not see-through, revealing bra straps or your undergarments.

Style Tips for Men:

- For men, simple, casual looks like untucked button-down shirts and jeans/chinos work best.

- Try to avoid cargo shorts and performance fabric polo shirts, as they can look too casual or sporty for family photos.

Tips for Dressing Kids:

Comfort is key:

- Make sure the kids are wearing comfortable, well-fitting clothes that they feel good in. Avoid anything too tight, itchy, or restrictive.

- Prioritize soft, breathable fabrics that won't cause irritation.

- Add visual interest with layers, patterns, and textured pieces like cardigans, vests, or ruffled shirts. This adds depth without being distracting.

- Coordinated, not matching. It is best to avoid dressing kids in identical outfits. Instead, aim for a coordinated color palette and complementary styles. This will create a cohesive look without being too "matchy-matchy".

- Steer clear of busy graphics, characters, or logos on shirts that can be distracting in photos.

- Keep accessories minimal to avoid drawing the eye away from faces.

Test it out:

- Have the kids wear the full outfit ahead of time to ensure everything fits properly and they feel comfortable.

- This is especially important for young kids who may refuse to wear certain items.

Above all else, when photo day comes...Remember to just HAVE FUN!